Former U.S House Speaker Newt Gingrich and GOP Rep. Michele Bachmann will headline the Minnesota Family Counci’s 2011 annual dinner. Both Gingrich and Bachmann say they’re considering a run for the White House in 2012 and the appearance at this event shows both are courting social conservatives as the Iowa Caucuses draw closer. The event will be held on May 17th in Minneapolis.

The Minnesota Family Council is known for bringing in high profile guests for the annual dinner. Former Gov. Tim Pawlenty spoke at the event last year. As did Mike Huckabee, the former governor of Arkansas and one-time presidential hopeful. Pawlenty has formed an exploratory committee for president nd Huckabee is said to be considering his options in 2012.

About the blogger

Tom Scheck has covered politics and state government for more than ten years for MPR News. He’s covered several gubernatorial campaigns, two statewide recounts, the presidential bids of Tim Pawlenty and Michele Bachmann, U.S. Senate races, close Congressional contests and the Minnesota Legislature. He lives in Falcon Heights with his wife, son and dog. He can sometimes be found chasing a white ball on a golf course. It isn’t a straight walk. Tips are welcome at tscheck@mpr.org